Top 15 things to do in Tampa during the Florida RV SuperShow

Established in 1904—and combined with the city’s Gasparilla Carnival to become “the biggest, best, most-deep-fried event of the year” in 1915— the Florida State Fairgrounds now attracts 1.5 million visitors annually to events including cheer competitions, art shows, commencement ceremonies, and the Florida State Fair, which takes place in February.

Stay just outside of the city at this beloved Floridian campground. With 300 full-hookup sites, a screened-in heated pool and hot tub, free WiFi, playground areas, and more, this resort will have you camping comfortably near some of the area’s top attractions.

Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City has been serving up its signature Spanish-Cuban food since 1905 and is billed as the oldest restaurant in Florida. The massive space seats 1,700 people and takes up an entire city block. Highlights include the flamenco dinner show, the sangria, and the award-winning 1905 Salad, which is tossed tableside.

Looking for some fresh air with a skyline and water view? Take a stroll or jog along Tampa’s Bayside Boulevard. At 4.5 miles, it’s the longest continuous sidewalk in the U.S. If you’re able to stick around for an extra week after the SuperShow, you won’t want to miss the Parade of Pirates—part of the Gasparilla Pirate Fest—which invades Bayshore Boulevard in late January each year.

The 2.6-mile-long Tampa Riverwalk is a pedestrian path that runs along the Hillsborough River. Notable attractions located along the Riverwalk include the Tampa Convention Center, Tampa Museum of Art, and Straz Center for the Performing Arts, alongside several parks and hotels. The area plays host to festivals and events throughout the year; since 2011, the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival has ended at the Riverwalk.

Founded in 1989, the Tampa Bay History Center opened its 60,000-square-foot facility in 2009 on the city’s Riverwalk. The Smithsonian Affiliate has three floors of exhibition space devoted to more than 10,000 years of Florida history. Permanent galleries highlight Indigenous cultures, infamous pirates, and the state’s cattle ranching history.

Located on 7th Avenue in Ybor City, Carmine’s specializes in Italian, Cuban, and Spanish cuisine, featuring what the restaurant claims is “one of the best Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa Bay.” In addition to serving lunch and dinner, Carmine’s also offers a catering service for weddings and corporate events with four unique venues including a patio and a semi-private banquet room.

A National Historic Landmark, the Henry B. Plant Museum is located in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel. The museum showcases the Victorian era through the original furnishings that were used by guests. Exhibits celebrate the early tourism industry in Florida and the hotel’s first owner, transportation entrepreneur Henry Plant.

Come for the seafood and stay for the views at this local hot spot. Situated along Old Tampa Bay, Oystercatchers is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. This award-winning establishment offers an upscale atmosphere and cuisine.

Break away from the city and sink your toes into white sand beaches at this stunning state park. Known for bird and wildlife watching, hiking, swimming, kayaking, and more, this is a great place to get outside and embrace Florida’s beautiful natural landscapes.

Fishing (a license is required), hiking, biking, and paddling await at this state park, located only minutes from downtown Tampa. Pet-friendly campsites offer water and electricity, as well as a picnic table and a fire ring. Facilities include laundry, showers, and a dump station. Bring your binoculars and be on the lookout for gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, owls, bobcats, and more.